Source: SKY_Sports
Magpies keep faith in Owen
Newcastle United assistant manager Iain Dowie has no doubts about striker Michael Owen's ability to remain in the line of fire.
Owen, 29, has suffered an injury-hit season and some detractors have questioned his long-term prospects, with England manager Fabio Capello highlighting doubts regarding the forward's fitness.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid player was expected to enjoy a productive end to the season after being restored to the first XI following the arrival of Alan Shearer, a close off-field friend, on an eight-game managerial tenure.
Owen, though, has failed to score in the opening three matches of his former international and Newcastle team-mate's reign, leading some doubters to suggest the forward should be dropped as the Magpies battle Premier League relegation.
Scrutiny
But Shearer's right-hand man, Dowie, is adamant that there are no doubts at St James' Park about Owen's ability, telling the Newcastle Chronicle: "Michael's goal record stands up to scrutiny with anybody.
"He is used to this. People only talk about him when he doesn't score.
"Michael has worked his socks off in all three games we've played. His work-rate is fantastic and he has covered so much ground.
"He's doing all the things that are right and one thing is certain - if chances come his way, he scores. We know that Michael has quality in abundance.
Business
"In training this week and last week, he has come up with finishes that other strikers simply can't do.
"It's almost a British thing now, we like to knock our great goalscorers. All Michael needs to know is that he's got the faith of his team-mates and the staff here.
"That's the key element and he knows it and feels it. Alan knows the game in terms of being where Michael is now. Alan was there himself. We are very happy with him.
"We know he can pop up when people are least expecting it. He knows how to deal with pressure - he's lived in 'the goldfish bowl' all his life. But he just gets on with his business."
